In conjunction with Valentine's Day, MusiCares announced the launch of an innovative fundraising campaign aimed at the public to create the world's largest photo mosaic comprised of 1 million photo tiles. "Be A Part Of The Heart" encourages fans, recording artists and corporate and media partners to come together to raise awareness and generate resources to help MusiCares continue to provide a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. Established by The Recording Academy in 1989, MusiCares' services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies.

"We just announced this campaign at our MusiCares Person of the Year tribute that honored Barbra Streisand on Feb. 11," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy, MusiCares, and the GRAMMY Foundation. "The response was immediate, and so far artists such as Bon Jovi, Black Cards, Taio Cruz, Melissa Etheridge, Selena Gomez, Martina McBride, Rascal Flatts, Pete Stump, Taylor Swift, and Gloria Trevi have already uploaded their photos. "The accessibility of the 'Be A Part Of The Heart' initiative, coupled with its message that together we can unite to do powerful and positive things, makes it a compelling campaign. It's going to be very meaningful to see this mosaic take shape over the next 10 months."

"What so engages me about the 'Be A Part Of The Heart' concept is that it will allow for the creation of a genuine online community that is coming together to participate in philanthropy and tell the story of music in their lives," said MusiCares Board Chair Paul Caine. "And it will help raise the visibility of this remarkable organization in the broader community."

Participants can visit www.beapartoftheheart.com and make a contribution of $1 to receive an online tile, upload a photo and include their stories and links to websites and social media platforms. There is no limit to the donation amount and the tiles that go with it. Tiles can be created in honor of loved ones, to commemorate important milestones or holidays, and to engage other members of the public. There is also a place to include text about key musical influences. In addition, the campaign offers a chance to win two tickets to the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards.

The "Be A Part Of The Heart" program will continue throughout 2011 with a special unveiling event and concert to be announced in December. For more information, visit www.beapartoftheheart.com.

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